C1noun 5K

Inability

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˌɪnəˈbɪləti/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˌɪnəˈbɪləti/"]/

Meaning of Inability

the fact of not being able to do something

In simple words: Not being able to do something.

Inability in a sentence

• the government’s inability to provide basic services
• Some families go without medical treatment because of their inability to pay.
• He has to overcome his inability to assert himself.
• Her outbursts reflected her inability to cope with the loss of her brother.
• His experiences as a child explain his inability to sustain relationships.
• She felt increasingly frustrated by her inability to demonstrate her ideas.
• He has an inability to control his rage.

How to use Inability

Commonly used in formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversations; instead, use 'can't' or 'not able to'.

Grammar pattern

inability + to + verb

Memory hint

Think of 'in' as 'not' and 'ability' as 'skill' - no skill!

Related words

Collocations with Inability

• apparent
• seeming
• complete
• have
• be frustrated by
• demonstrate

Synonyms for Inability

• incompetence
• lack
• incapacity
• weakness
• failure

Opposites of Inability

• ability
• capability
• power

Common mistakes with Inability

• Confusing with 'inability's plural form.
• Using 'inability' instead of 'unable' in sentences.
• Incorrectly using in informal settings.

Frequently asked questions about Inability

What does Inability mean?

Not being able to do something.

What is the definition of Inability?

the fact of not being able to do something

How do you use Inability in a sentence?

the government’s inability to provide basic services

Can you give another example of Inability?

Some families go without medical treatment because of their inability to pay.

What are synonyms for Inability?

Common alternatives include incompetence, lack, incapacity, weakness, failure.

What is the opposite of Inability?

Opposite meanings include ability, capability, power.

What words go with Inability?

It commonly pairs with apparent, seeming, complete, have, be frustrated by, demonstrate.

What are common mistakes when using Inability?

Confusing with 'inability's plural form. Using 'inability' instead of 'unable' in sentences. Incorrectly using in informal settings.

How do you pronounce Inability?

US: /["/ˌɪnəˈbɪləti/"]/, UK: /["/ˌɪnəˈbɪləti/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Inability?

Commonly used in formal contexts. Avoid in casual conversations; instead, use 'can't' or 'not able to'.

What CEFR level is Inability?

"Inability" is at C1 level on the CEFR scale.